Auks · Shorebirds
Black Guillemot
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Cepphus grylle
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Voice
Song
Doug Hynes
How to recognize it
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Medium auk, black in summer with a large white wing patch
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Long slim black bill and coral-red feet
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Winter: grey back, white underparts
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Rocky coasts; breeding call a high whistle
About the species
The Black Guillemot looks calm and compact, and by the water or on cliffs it is easiest to remember as a dark shape with a clear white wing patch. In winter the contrast softens as the plumage turns paler.
It dives from the surface and moves underwater with confidence. It is usually quiet, but in the breeding season it gives a high whistle.
Look for it on rocky islands, cliffy shores, and open water near breeding sites. It feeds on fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, and in northern areas some individuals move south for winter.
Where to find
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On rocky waterfronts, breakwaters, and old bridges — close to the waterline, then disappearing in a quick dive between the boulders.
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Along cliffy banks and cracked stone quays — often perched alone or in pairs on a ledge before slipping underwater.
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In winter, around unfrozen bays and harbor barriers — surfacing with a fish after a short dive near the shore.
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Early in the morning by small islands and stone piers — calling from a low perch on granite or concrete.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Cepphus grylle Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Black guillemot Encyclopedia article